Alexander Biddle was a member of the prominent Philadelphia Biddle family and was married to Julia Williams Rush, the granddaughter of Dr. Benjamin Rush. Biddle served with the 121st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, beginning in September 1862. Starting out as a major, he would participate in Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)
Transcript:
Head Qrs 121st Regt P.V.
Camp near Warrenton Junctn Virga
Wednesday July 29th 1863
…
Thursday 30th –We had a rainy night last night but to day is bright & clear – If you think of it send me a very small spool of black silk when you send the box (I should say bag) – If the bag is not full (which I think it will be) put Gray’s Botany in it – I sometimes find a plant I would like to identify – From the papers of Philada it seems to us that the Blue Reserves Grey Reserves – 20th Regt & Citizens of Philada – have resolved themselves into a mutual admiration Society. We were very glad to find so much spirit and alacrity shown by them, for they really had a moral effect on the rebels – and deserve great credit for their efforts – but We have not heard of any injury sustained by them except in Landis’ battery beyond a few wounded – We wonder if they ever think at home of the regiments which have born such fearful losses for the protection of our firesides – the public sympathy never appears to dwell on them. I do think that Chapman Biddle – Ellmaker – Langhorne Wister – Lyle – Prevost c&c&c deserve consideration for their gallantry quite as much as those whom our Citizens seem to cover with flattery – The mail carrier is waiting to take the letters Good bye beloved. God bless and preserve you and all at home and grant us a speedy return to each other.
Your loving
Alexander
Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. 29 July 1863. Rush IV:30:33